Why The Mandarin Oriental Muscat Is A Must-Visit Escape
and local touches elevate the offering at the new Mandarin Oriental Muscat
As the sleek limousine purrs through Shatti Al-Qurum, with its white villas and prominent flags, you know you're in an expensive neighbourhood. Flanked by embassies, within a short walk to the Muscat Opera House and hugging the coastline, the much-anticipated Mandarin Oriental Muscat has found a very special address.
From the moment you are ushered into the lobby, where high-powered meetings and genial ladies' gatherings are taking place with pretty patisserie in the Sawa Lounge and Mandarin Cake Shop, one can see that this new property has already carved its place among the city's elite. There's something very reassuring about staying at a hotel that has established itself – and is frequented by – its own community.
Its location is key. This is a hotel for those who want to be in the heart of the city, to immerse themselves in the Sultanate's culture and to take advantage of the bespoke excursions the hotel curates, from rose-picking visits to the Jabal Akhdar mountains to a trip to celebrated local artist Alia Al Farsi's Al Rusayl warehouse gallery and a tour of the evocative Muttrah souk scented with spice and frankincense. You'll also see her painted motorbike on the property, and be able to learn about how the hotel's symbol – its iconic fan – has been commissioned as an artwork featuring 11 Omani women in traditional, diverse dress.
The 150-room and suite property has already become a top pick among the business community who find the central location indispensable. But as more of its leisure offerings are unveiled, it's attracting a wider range of families and tourists, too. Those looking to unwind find the swimming pool – a focal point at the heart of the property – a sanctuary to escape to. And the promenade on the waterfront is ideal for picturesque walks. Gastronomic offerings are another big draw for both hotel guests and visitors; all-day dining is provided at Rawya, which charms with its indoor-outdoor aesthetic, Silk Road-inspired story and sumptuous buffet breakfasts. Italian Essenza's terrace is the go-to for dinner. Classics are done with aplomb – burrata-topped Margherita pizzas, rich lasagne and veal Milanese all accounted for – but the culinary cognoscenti should opt for some of the more niche offerings; a flavourful penne fish ragu was a revelation.
After a day basking in the sun or discovering local sites and natural treasures, returning to the sophisticated rooms is a welcome delight. Through artwork, French designer Xavier Cartron has infused a gentle local touch into the sprawling spaces (even entry level options start at 55sqm), while keeping the understated luxury stamp that the Far Eastern brand is known for. Our corner suite had a separate dining and seating area, was flanked by balconies overlooking the sea and pool and had a huge walk-in closet connected to the bathroom, complete with stand-alone tub.
The Mandarin Oriental is of course known for its spas. The Muscat incarnation lives up to their world-famous reputation, with a traditional hammam, eight treatment rooms and a slew of rituals – like the rose quartz massage that evokes being surrounded by sand – that incorporate local beauty traditions. There are also international brands showcased, with facials using Biologique Recherche, and a collaboration with haute perfumerie house Amouage.
There are many plans yet to be unveiled; we spotted shops and restaurant outlets by the waterfront, space for a Kids' Club and a programme of ideas for community initiatives that will create an even more vibrant environment; one that further infuses Omani tradition into the lives of lucky guests who get to stay here.
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